Ohio’s health department has confirmed the state’s first human case of bird flu, a rare occurrence that poses a low risk to the general public. The patient, a Mercer County man who works on a farm, contracted the virus after coming into contact with an infected dead bird.
According to Dr. Jen Forrester, director of infectious diseases at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, human cases typically involve individuals working closely with birds. However, she noted that the overall risk is low for those without close contact.
Symptoms of bird flu in humans are similar to other respiratory viruses and include fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches. The Ohio Department of Agriculture reported over 10 million birds have died from bird flu, but experts say there’s no need to be concerned about consuming chicken or eggs.
The quarantining of infected birds has slowed the spread of the virus, and health departments are continuing to monitor the situation. Epidemiologist Kim Wright highlighted the safety of poultry products in the market, stating that highly regulated industries will not sell affected flocks. Wright also urged people to get flu shots as seasonal flu cases increase.
Despite the low risk, health officials remind the public to take precautions when handling birds or consuming poultry products. Washing hands and cooking meat thoroughly are recommended measures to reduce the risk of transmission.
Source: https://local12.com/news/local/protect-yourself-concerned-bird-flu-ohio-first-human-case-mercer-county-virus-illness-sick-sickness-ill-symptom-symptoms-influenza-fever-hospitalization-infected-dead-birds-chickens-eggs-poultry-farms-farming-rare-viruses-cincinnati